by Cheryl Lacey, ©2022
(Jan. 5, 2022) — The United States and Australia have much in common.
We have distinctive traditions and culture, including the English language, and laws that are consistent with the values of society. We subscribe to inviting immigrants to belong freely and genuinely. And we expect all of its citizens to value its culture, become articulate in its language, and respect its laws.
As human beings we are both body and spirit. Our behaviours and beliefs are challenged in every decision we make, every day.
To value our language, identify with our culture and respect our laws is to know what it is to value the ethics woven into our daily lives.
No-one is perfect, or wholly imperfect. Everyone, however, is a reflection of another. Our ethical footprint is followed, trampled on and recreated daily.
A society’s attitude towards children is a gauge of its broader social and moral concerns.
Schools should not be measured by the money spent, the results achieved, or the competition encouraged.
School is an equaliser, where personal lives can be forgotten, even if for just a short while, so that children can embrace the English language and their place in our respective nations, and begin to evolve – developing self, and contributing to others.
Money is then invested, not spent, results achieved are determined by effective learning AND teaching, and competition is against self to find one’s place where contributions to others are best served.
Ethical behaviour in schools begins with respect for individuality and compassion for others.
This is what the USA and Australia once had in common…it’s high time we dusted off the cobwebs and honoured ethical behaviour once more.
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Cheryl Lacey
e| cheryl@cheryllacey.com
w| www.cheryllacey.com
p| +61 419 518 811
